Mitaka Station offers access to the JR Chuo Line, Chuo–Sobu Line, and direct Tokyo Metro Tozai Line trains, making it an exceptionally convenient station for commuting and daily life.
Located on the border of Musashino City and Mitaka City, it is widely recognized as an area that balances quiet residential comfort with strong transportation convenience, making it one of the most desirable places to live along the Chuo Line.
🏛️ 1. Basic Information & History
Location: Nakacho, Musashino City (partly extends into Mitaka City)
Lines Served: JR Chuo Line (Rapid), JR Chuo–Sobu Line (Local), Tokyo Metro Tozai Line through-service
Opened: 1931 (Showa 6)
Key Features: A Rapid/Chuo Special Rapid stop and the starting point for Tozai Line through-trains, allowing commuters to sit comfortably during morning rush hours
Originally surrounded by farmland, the area developed into a residential district after the Chuo Line opened. Today, it is highly regarded as a “comfortable and easy-to-live city” spanning both Musashino and Mitaka.
🌟 2. What Makes Mitaka Great (Merits)
✅ 1. Excellent Access to Central Tokyo
Chuo Special Rapid and Rapid trains stop here: approx. 17 minutes to Shinjuku, 25 minutes to Tokyo
As the first station for Tozai Line through-trains, you can often secure a seat during rush hour
✅ 2. Quiet Residential Environment & Good Safety
Calm residential neighborhoods spread mainly around the south side of the station
Very safe and especially popular with families
Musashino City has designated education zones, contributing to a strong learning environment
✅ 3. Well-Developed Shopping & Daily Convenience
The station building Atrevi Mitaka includes restaurants, shops, and clinics
Multiple supermarkets (Tokyu Store, Queens Isetan, OK Store, etc.) and drugstores provide excellent daily convenience
✅ 4. Nature Within Walking Distance
Close to Inokashira Park (toward Kichijoji) and the Tamagawa Josui greenway
Ideal for walking and jogging, offering a relaxed lifestyle surrounded by greenery
✅ 5. Home of the Ghibli Aesthetic
The famous Ghibli Museum, Mitaka no Mori is located nearby
A beloved tourist spot that also enhances the area's cultural identity and brand value
⚠️ 3. Weak Points (Demerits)
❌ 1. North–South Movement Can Be Slightly Inconvenient
Due to its elevated structure, moving between north and south requires using the free passageway
Some locals feel it can be “a bit of a detour”
❌ 2. Limited Large-Scale Commercial Areas
Daily necessities are well covered, but large malls and entertainment hubs are few
Those seeking the bustle of Kichijoji might find the area slightly quiet
❌ 3. Rents Are Relatively High
The calm residential environment is in high demand, pushing rents above nearby stations like Musashi-Sakai
The Musashino City (north side) area is especially pricey due to high land values
🧺 4. Living Convenience Overview
Transportation
Comfortable commuting with Chuo Special Rapid + Tozai Line starting trains. One stop from Kichijoji.
Shopping
Ample supermarkets, drugstores, and station complex facilities ensure stress-free daily shopping.
Dining
Many calm cafés and locally run restaurants make dining enjoyable.
Medical
Medical mall connected to the station and several nearby general hospitals.
Childcare
Education zones, many nurseries, and parks create a strong family-friendly environment.
Nature
Tamagawa Josui, Inokashira Park, and abundant greenery make the area peaceful and scenic.
🏠 5. Real Estate Market in Mitaka
💴 Average Rent Prices (2024)
ワンルーム〜1K： ￥75,000〜￥90,000
1LDK〜2DK： ￥120,000〜￥150,000
2LDK〜3LDK： ￥160,000〜￥220,000
Note: The north side (Musashino City) is especially popular and tends to be more expensive.
🏘 Asset Value & Investment Potential
Desirable due to being next to Kichijoji yet quieter and more residential
Limited large-scale redevelopment, but stable demand keeps property values strong
High rental demand thanks to the Tozai Line originating here—excellent for investment
🎯 6. Summary
Mitaka Station offers an exceptional balance of:
Transportation convenience
Harmony with nature
Safe, calm residential neighborhoods
While it may not have the vibrant commercial atmosphere of Kichijoji, Mitaka excels in comfort, safety, convenience, and livability—making it an ideal choice for families and those who want a quiet home while working in central Tokyo.